The Andrews Government and the Victorian dairy industry have united to deliver an $11.4 Million support package for dairy farmers affected by the global fall in milk prices and decisions by some processors to cut the prices paid to their suppliers.

“We’re putting dairy farmers and their families first by providing them with the support they need to look after themselves and each other.” Premier Daniel Andrews said.

“The Andrews Government stands behind our rural communities, and we won’t let any farmer or community member go it alone.”

The support package put together in consultation with the Dairy Industry Taskforce will ensure dairy farmers and their families experiencing financial and emotional stress get the support they need.

This package includes a $5.2 Million industry contribution, comprising $1.4 Million from the Gardiner Foundation, $2.8 Million from Dairy Australia and up to $1 Million from Murray Goulburn. The government and industry support package includes:

A major expansion of Dairy Australia’s Tactics for TightTimes and Taking Stock programs, providing specialised on farm business support to enable dairy farmers make the best decisions

$220,000 for two FTE support workers at the United Dairyfarmers of Victoria (UDV) to assist farmers.

As part of the dairy support package, the State Government has set aside $4.5 Million to support affected farming communities and will consult on how these funds are best spent.

“We know that this is a tough time for Victorian dairy farmers, and now more than ever it’s crucial that the industry comes together.” Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford said.

“With this assistance package we are ensuring that dairy farmers have access to needed support, is it financial counselling or on farm business support to make sure they can make the best decisions for their farm.”

Last week the Andrews Government announced a $1.5 Million mental health wellbeing package for dairy farmers. This included extra counselling services, mental health first aid training, support for community events and a $100,000 boost towards the Look Over the Farm Gate program.

For dairy farmers and their families seeking help, they can phone Lifeline on 13 11 14.

VIC Premier Daniel Andrews

Consumer Support

At all times when purchasing milk Editor Victor P Taffa buys branded milk products and avoids generic labelled milk products like the plague. Buying only branded milk products gives Australian Farmers total support.